Darwin Region Street Soccer Program - Big Issue

The Big Issue are bringing us The Darwin Region Street Soccer Program.

"The Street Soccer Program attracts males and females, of all ages and varying ability and fitness levels, getting together once a week, training and playing matches. The players usually come from backgrounds of mental illness, homelessness, refugee status, drug and alcohol dependency, physical disability, long-term unemployment or family breakdown."

The program begins Monday 13th July @ Chrisp Street Oval, Rapid Creek @ 5pm.

Some of the stated benefits of this Street Soccer Program are:

· Social inclusion and improved links with the community
· Re-connection with family
· Improved confidence and self-esteem
· Improved mental health
· Improved health and fitness
· A sense of belonging
· Discipline
· Addressing drug or alcohol dependency
· Seeking support or advice
· Improving their housing situation
· Finding employment

Thanks Big Issue for the work you are doing with marginalised people in our community!

Anti-Social Behaviour Forum - Palmerston

Held in the Palmerston Rec Centre tonight was an Anti-Social Behaviour Forum organised by Palmerston City Council. On the panel was Mayor Robert Macleod, Chief Minister Paul Hendersen, Opposition Leader Terry Mills and two high ranking Police Officers. The Palmerston public fired away questions and let off some steam about the anti-social behaviour in Palmerston. Some of the key discussion points were:
* 18 Families seem to be the Core offenders and instigators of anti-social behaviour in Palmerston.
* Should teenagers be allowed to roam the streets when on suspension, when really they are supposed to be punished to some degree for their behaviour?
* The Government should be doing more, etc, etc.

Terry Mills mentioned that we all have a part to play in the safety of a community. How many of those that attended tonight (especially those voicing very passionately about stopping anti-social behaviour), how many of these people are part of neighbourhood watch, or part of a non-for profit group that is working at changing this. Sure, many are, but we cannot just complain about Government's needing to do more, or police need to do more, etc, because we need to be part of the solution as well.

As the Mayor Robert Macleod said, 'Palmerston is a great place to live', and I agree. Lets work at finding solutions to those age old issues of violence, teenage boredom, bad parenting and shallow education.

Buzz Fm - 87.6

Well, I was sitting on the Wharf and enjoying a meal, when I heard a singer belting out some tunes. He mentioned that his music was being played on Buzz Fm (87.6). During the Red Shield Appeal, Graeme from Buzz Fm was happy to have me come and speak about the appeal to the listeners. It's great to have local radio, with a local passion, and a heart for Palmerston. I occassionally turn the dial over and have a listen.
Thanks Buzz Fm!

Palmerston Festival - A hit!

Sunday was the Palmerston Festival. Well done to all those involved, including mostly the Palmerston City Council for their efforts.

There were stall holders around, with plenty of food to buy, and non-for profit organisations showing what they're about, and businesses promoting their products. The stage was filled from 1pm - 8pm with acts, singers, dancers and loads more. It was a most enjoyable day out.
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Alcohol management seems to be on the agenda at the moment. How do we manage the alcohol consumption in and around Palmerston? Apparently there is a 2km dry law that exists, but how strongly do Police enforce it? How strongly should they enforce it?
I spoke to a lady from Liquorland the other day. She was all down and depressed so early in the morning. She made a comment saying, 'It's aboriginal pension day today, and I work at Liquorland'. It was a sad comment really, because it said a lot about the situation around us.